last resort

Idioms and Phrases

A final expedient or recourse to achieve some end or settle a difficulty. For example, If you don't improve, we'll try this new medication as a last resort . This term originally referred to a court of law from which there was no appeal. [Late 1600s]

Example Sentences

He also told jurors that disciplining his children with physical punishment was a “last resort” for Mr Sharif.

From BBC

The court of last resort was set up to deal with the most heinous crimes of an international nature when countries are unable or unwilling to prosecute high ranking individuals accused of atrocities.

From BBC

Palliative care and public-health doctor Dr Lucy Thomas said assisted dying was a last resort, and that choosing to end your life was not a "straightforward consumer decision".

From BBC

For each of them, as for McKinley, it was a Los Angeles home of last resort, where rent was in the hundreds rather than the thousands of dollars.

From Los Angeles Times

"I sought asylum protection as a last resort. I remain a Singapore citizen and hope that some day it will become safe to return home."

From BBC